Regift of the Magi

Like it or not, the holidays are here. Hanukkah’s already started and everything else is rushing up on us like paparazzi on Britney Spears and Paris Hilton snuggling in a limo.

Forget the fruitcake- here are some great gift ideas that are guaranteed to save you time and money.

Jewelry Your Ex Gave You–You thought it would last forever. Yeah, well, you also thought they’d never kill Dana off. That ring from your second anniversary only serves as a depressing reminder. Clean it up, stick it in a new box and give it to your boss. Just be sure to explain the inscription “Always and Forever” means you’re all about company loyalty.

WNBA Team Clothing–Okay, you got a little carried away during the first three seasons. Half the players aren’t on those teams anymore or are retired now. A little dry cleaning, a little tissue paper and voila! Vintage memorabilia for that sports nut in your life.

The Truth Is… My Life In Love and Music by Melissa Etheridgeand Any Other Books You’re Not Going To Be Re-reading- As long as they’re still in good shape, books you’re done with make excellent gifts and clear some much needed shelf space. Plus, what could be easier to wrap than a book? Nothing, that’s what.

The Never-used Gift–Fugly candle holders, frou-frou gift baskets, heinous sweaters, World’s Greatest Golfer picture frames, that Claire of the Moon DVD- the list goes on and on. Regifting the bad gifts you’ve received over the years is not only cost effective, it’s cathartic. Just be sure not to regift these items to the person who gave them to you in the first place. That could get ugly.

Hideous Holiday Crap–Who hasn’t had to smile weakly and feign excitement upon receiving a snowman coffee mug or a set of cheesy Santa kitchen towels? You know someone who loves that stuff- we all do. Toss it in an equally cheesy gift bag and you’re done. They’ll love you for it.

I once received a set of doilies for Christmas. Eeesh. What’s the worst gift you ever got?